PHNOM PENH: Minister of Interior Sar Sokha has issued a direct and forceful appeal to young people, warning them against the lure of gang involvement and urging them to pursue education, skills and positive opportunities instead.
In a public message addressed to “young kings and queens standing at a crossroads”, Sokha cautioned that gangs often present themselves as a source of belonging and protection, but in reality lead to violence, addiction and long-term consequences.
“Gangs don’t give you power — they take it away,” the minister said, describing promises of loyalty and success as “a lie wrapped in fake loyalty”.
He highlighted research showing that youth who become involved in gangs are more likely to drop out of school, face arrest, suffer injuries or worse, and encounter ongoing difficulties later in life, including limited job prospects, broken trust and health issues linked to stress and street life.
Sokha stressed that the sense of “family” offered by gangs often turns into pressure and fear, with many former members expressing regret over their decisions.
Some, he noted, lose friends to violence or become trapped in cycles of drug abuse and incarceration.
Instead, the minister encouraged young people to seek what he described as “real power” — taking control of their future through education, vocational training, entrepreneurship, sports, arts and community engagement.
“Real respect comes from building something that lasts,” the Sokha said, pointing to the role of parents, teachers, mentors and supportive peers in guiding youth toward success.
Drawing on examples of former gang members who have rebuilt their lives, the minister said many have gone on to start businesses, become artists or mentors, and contribute positively to society after choosing discipline and personal development.
Sar Sokha called on young people to reject what he described as the “easy trap” of gang life and instead commit to long-term growth, resilience and self-improvement.
“Your life is not a gang script. It’s your movie,” the minister said, urging youth to seek guidance from trusted adults and to engage in constructive activities that build skills and confidence.
Sar Sokha concluded with a strong warning that “gang life ends in darkness,” while encouraging young people to make choices that will allow them to “shine bright enough to light up” their communities.
The Ministry of Interior has in recent years stepped up public awareness campaigns aimed at preventing youth crime and promoting safer communities, as concerns over juvenile delinquency and social pressures continue to grow. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
